Juliana Siahaan
Jul 31, 2025
Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta Unveils 'TITILARAN' A Cross-Generational Artistic Legacy for a New Era, in conjunction with its 63rd anniversary
In 1962, President Sukarno envisioned Hotel Indonesia as more than just a building; it was to be a powerful symbol of national progress and unity—a shining beacon of modern architecture and profound national aspiration. His clear intent was for the hotel's décor to be a vibrant showcase of Indonesia's national character and its rich tapestry of arts. As a keen collector and active patron, he meticulously shaped this artistic landscape, consistently challenging artists to innovate with new materials.
Sukarno strategically placed artworks with appropriate themes in public spaces. For instance, statues such as 'Girl Going for a Bath' (Sulistyo) and 'Two Girls Fetching Water' (Saptoto) graced the area near the swimming pool, while Trubus's revered statue of Dewi Sri, Indonesia's goddess of rice, was positioned in the hotel's front garden. These choices also mirrored Sukarno's well-known admiration for Indonesian female beauty, which he considered an important aspect of the nation's cultural and artistic heritage.
Over the years, contemporary art, characterised by its diversity in materials, methods, concepts, and subjects, has taken centre stage. Often challenging traditional boundaries and reflecting a globally influenced, culturally diverse, and technologically advancing world, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta is proud to join this movement. Drawing inspiration from our enduring legacy through the perspective of art, we aim to transcend artistic boundaries by showcasing the viewpoints of two distinct generations. This initiative firmly establishes Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta as a pioneer and a premier destination for multi-generational guests seeking a rich cultural experience.
The 'TITILARAN' exhibition, thoughtfully curated by Rizki A. Zaelani, a highly respected and influential figure in Indonesia’s art scene, forms an integral part of this celebration. Known for his insightful curatorial vision, Rizki has masterfully translated our 'TITILARAN' theme into a compelling presentation of art installations. His work is widely recognised both locally and internationally, and his curatorial touch has illuminated numerous prominent exhibitions, serving as a beacon in the evolving landscape of contemporary art.
Set in the lobby of Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta, the exhibition features an impressive collaborative collection from both well-known masters and rising stars in the art scene. Highlights include the iconic 3-metre ‘Sunarkiv’, a project between Arkiv Vimansa and Sunaryo, offering an interpretation of the infamous ‘Mickiv’ with a focus on Sunaryo’s pilgrimage experience at the Ka’bah. Further collaborations showcase family ties and bloodlines, such as works by Haryadi Suadi and Radi Arwinda, and Tisna Sanjaya and Etza Meisyara. The exhibition also features two female intertwining in the creation of Andre Tanama and Landha Bellamora, fashion meeting art through the eyes of Jeihan and Mel Ahyar, and legacy living on in the realism art by Widayat and Eko Rahmy. Paper as a medium is transcended into a modern approach from Made Wianta and Irfan Hendrian, alongside an immersive colour experience from Teja Astawa and REEXP, and aesthetic sculpture from Rita Widagdo and Gabriel Aries.
The ‘TITILARAN’ exhibition is available for public viewing from 23 July until 18 August 2025. Guests are invited to discover the living legacy of the late President Sukarno meeting contemporary visual art, which serves as an aspiration and inspiration for generations to come.
During the anniversary month, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta invites guests to stay at the iconic hotel with exclusive offers for rooms and suites, inclusive of daily breakfast, a hotel credit of IDR 500,000 per stay with a minimum of two nights, and a limited-edition ‘TITILARAN’ welcome gift. Book now through www.kempinski.com/jakarta until the end of August for stays until the end of December 2025 and discover a chance to indulge at the Salon Suite, Diplomatic Suite and Presidential Suite with a one-of-a-kind deal.
For more information, please click here or contact WhatsApp at 0817-0791-398.
